Alabama’s 2013 recruiting class is filling up and will finish as one of the best groups in the country after signing day hits. One primary target remains uncommitted for this class, though, and Nick Saban is running a full-court press in his direction.

The Crimson Tide are losing three starters along the offensive line after this year, and one of those departing players is offensive tackle D.J. Fluker. There is talent on the roster already for Alabama, but landing a guy like Tunsil would shake up the depth chart.

There is a need to have as much competition up front as possible, and Tunsil would bring a nasty streak that is needed to produce two 1,000-yard rushers.

Some offenses will try to out-scheme an opponent up front, creating confusion and mismatches at the line of scrimmage. Alabama just wants to line up and run you over.

This is an offense that relies on a strong push that can control opponents from start to finish. It is tough for freshmen to come in, learn a system and stay aggressive on the field while thinking—especially at the tackle position.

Tunsil is a unique player, however. He has the build to make an immediate impact, and he appears to have the aptitude to handle the leap to the college game and become a contributor from day one.

Would Tunsil compete for a starting job at Alabama in 2013?

YesNoSubmit Votevote to see results

Would Tunsil compete for a starting job at Alabama in 2013?

Yes

86.7%

No

13.3%

Total votes: 3,498

Nick Saban has not been afraid to play underclassmen along the line in the past, and nothing will change that now. If Alabama can pull Tunsil, he will have a legitimate shot at starting this fall.

Alabama is already drawing in what appears to be the No. 1 class in the country. Nick Saban may as well finish the job and bring in the best offensive tackle in the country in the class, too.

If Saban lands Tunsil, it will mark the second consecutive recruiting season that the No. 1 offensive tackle has landed in Tuscaloosa.

This pickup would give the Tide one less concern along the line heading into the new year. Alabama has to have a strong line presence, or the play-action offense that has shredded the nation two years in a row will fall flat.